ASSINIBOIA - Harvest is mostly wrapped up in the southwest with mainly flax being the last crop left to be combined, according to the crop report for the period of September 26 to October 2. Producers are waiting for a hard frost, as it will stop any regrowth and force the crop to mature. Producers would like to see a large general rain sweep across the region over the course of a couple days to allow the soil moisture to be recharged and to see their pastures green up before winter.
Grain quality for Hard Red Spring Wheat was rated as 43 per cent 1CW, 44 per cent 2CW and 13 per cent 3CW. Grain quality suffered this year due to excessively dry and hot growing conditions.
There were widespread rain showers in the region last week. Several areas received 10 to 25 mm while the Tyner and Shaunavon areas saw nearly 40 mm. This rain was highly appreciated by producers and is a start to replenishing the large moisture deficit the region is in.
Cropland topsoil moisture is now rated as eleven per cent adequate, 56 per cent short and 33 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 11 per cent adequate, 55 per cent short and 34 per cent very short. Some producers do not expect they will have enough feed to last the winter with their current herd sizes and are considering reducing their numbers.
Producers are busy wrapping up harvest, harrowing, hauling bales, cleaning corrals and moving cattle to where they can be fed and watered.
